Researchers Study ocean fish stocks

The marine scientific survey currently being conducted in Tanzania’s Indian Ocean by new Dr. Fridtjof Nansen Research Vessel has reached final stages, it has been learned.

The vessel is conducting a survey with the objective to collect data on distribution and abundance of fish stocks, biodiversity, environmental conditions, the occurrence of microplastics, using cutting-edge technology and sophisticated equipment to help developing countries assemble scientific data critical to sustainable fisheries management and study how changing climate is affecting the oceans.

The information had it that vessel will today dock at the Dar es Salaam port for the ‘port call’ event to increase awareness about ocean issues generally, but most specifically over the survey.

The Chief coast of the event is the Chief Secretary (CS), Ambassador John Kijazi on behalf of President John Magufuli.

Ministers in charge of environment, agriculture, livestock and fisheries from both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar will also be present. This is the third ship to bear the Nansen name during an ongoing 40-year partnership between FAO and Norway.

Housing seven different laboratories packed with high tech equipment Dr. Fridjof Nansen vessel is the only marine research ship that flies the UN flag.

The survey on Tanzania’s Indian Ocean waters came after the Government through the Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Food, and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) signed a cooperation programme agreement for the implementation of the Ecosystem Approach to Fisheries (EAF) – Nansen Programme, with Norway’s Institute of Marine Research (IMR) providing scientific services.